The Montauket tribe, although relatively isolated on the eastern tip of Long Island, grew to become one of the most influential in Southern New England. Their rise to prominence was based on the importance of wampum, as the chief means of barter between Indian tribes, made from polished sea shells. Montauk hunters and warriors used bows and arrows, spears, and clubs. Fishermen used pronged spears, nets, and bone hooks.
Formed over 100 million years ago, during the last great Ice Age, Montauk is blessed with many of nature's greatest gifts. It's coastlines are dotted with pristine beaches, the climate is mild year round, the waters warm, it's proximity to the Gulf Stream makes for spectacular fishing, and Montauk's history ranks among the most interesting of any of the other towns and villages of the East End.
Fun Fact: In the Great Hurricane of 1938, water flooded across Napeague, turning Montauk into an island. Flood waters from the hurricane inundated the main downtown (which was by Gosman's Dock) and the whole town was moved 3 miles to the south to its present location.
Directions: Take route 27 and about 2 miles east of downtown Montauk (3 miles west of the lighthouse), turn North on E. Lake Drive and park on the east shoulder.